Green Bay Packaging Inc. (GBP) has announced the acquisition of SMC Packaging Group based in Springfield, MO, USA. The transaction, which took place May 31, 2024, and marks a significant milestone for both companies.

Founded in 1972 by co-founders Ross Ausburn and Charles Bachus, SMC Packaging Group has garnered a reputation for its corrugated packaging products. With over 50 years of growth, expansion, and technological advancement, SMC Packaging Group operates across multiple locations in Missouri, Arkansas, and Oklahoma. Its Midwest roots instill a strong work ethic, a commitment to safety, and a focus on delivering quality products, customized solutions, and exceptional customer satisfaction.

“We are excited to unite two well-established, family-run businesses,” says Will Kress, chairman and CEO of Green Bay Packaging. “We look forward to the continued growth and success of both SMC Packaging Group and Green Bay Packaging.”

“For over five decades, our employee-owners have diligently provided quality products in a timely manner to our customers. Simultaneously, we have fostered a profitable and successful company deeply rooted in community values. As SMC Packaging Group expands beyond our founder’s vision, we are ready to embark on the next chapter by joining Green Bay Packaging. Their shared commitment to employee well-being and community pride aligns perfectly with our philosophy,” says Kevin Ausburn, SMC Packaging Group’s chairman and CEO.

Plus, HP and RR Donnelley & Sons Company (RRD) have announced a strategic collaboration to expand RRD’s production capacity with the commitment to install in excess of 15 new HP Indigo and PageWide Presses. These presses will join RRD’s existing fleet across facilities in North America, China, and Central America. 

HP and RRD have been working together for the past 30 years, and this new expansion of RRD’s existing fleet will drive efficiency and time-savings throughout the entire production cycle. This expansion will enhance productivity and flexibility to support their clients’ diverse needs in the labels and packaging, commercial, direct mail, and statement businesses.

John Pecaric chief operating officer at RRD, says, “We are committed to delivering the highest quality brand experiences for our clients’ customers through multiple touchpoints in the physical and digital customer journey. We have a strategic relationship with HP that provides us with early access to innovative technology that continues to make print a valuable medium.” 

Here are the Top 10 stories from the month of June:

1. Green Bay Packaging acquires SMC Packaging Group

2. RR Donnelley expands partnership with HP

3. Constantia Flexibles and ExxonMobil launch recyclable freezer film

4. OMNI Systems opens Print Center of Excellence in Missouri

5. Fedrigoni acquires majority stake in BoingTech

6. Niagara Label hosting FLAG Annual Meeting Member Tour

7. Colordyne sells 1600 and 1800 Series benchtop business to Afinia Label

8. Labelexpo Americas to have strong focus on RFID

9. Record number of deals signed at drupa 2024

10. The Label Team announces promotion of Jordan McDaniel